Certified Nonprofit Professional Practice Exam

Nonprofit organization leaders should always broaden their missions to accommodate specific funders' interests. Is this statement true or false?

1. True

2. False

3. It depends on the organization's size.

4. It is only true for large organizations.

The correct answer is: False

The statement is false because nonprofit organization leaders should not adjust their missions solely to align with the interests of specific funders. The core mission of a nonprofit is foundational to its identity and purpose; it defines the organization's goals, the population it serves, and the specific social issue it aims to address. Broadening a mission merely to attract funding can lead to mission drift, which undermines the organization's integrity and effectiveness. When organizations expand their missions in response to funders' interests, they risk straying from their original goals and potentially losing sight of the community's needs they intend to serve. This shift can also alienate existing supporters and stakeholders who resonate with the organization’s primary objectives. Therefore, it is crucial for leaders to focus on the mission-driven approach and seek funding that aligns with their established goals rather than altering their mission to attract funding. Maintaining a consistent mission ensures that the organization can effectively utilize resources to achieve its goals, providing the best outcomes for the community it serves.